The Car and Truck Fleet and Leasing Management Magazine

Safety Tip: Driving in Rain or Fog

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation Registry of Motor Vehicles offers this advice for driving in the rain or fog:

Rain and wet roads make it harder to start, stop and turn. Hard rain, fog and mist can also make it more difficult to see. Use your headlights and taillights whenever you use your windshield wipers. Daytime running lights are not sufficient.

Slow down as soon as the rain starts. Many roads are most slippery when rain first mixes with road dirt and oil and forms a greasy film. If a road is slippery, your tires can lose traction and your car can hydroplane.

If your vehicle starts to hydroplane, you’re driving too fast. Slowly step off the gas pedal. Never hit the brakes or turn suddenly. You may lose control and skid.

Make more space between your vehicle and others. You need more space to stop your vehicle. Be prepared to stop quickly and within the distance you can see ahead.

Be careful of wet leaves on the road. They can be as slippery as ice.

Keep your windshield wipers and window defoggers in good condition.

In fog, use your low beam headlights to reduce glare.

Always use your turn signals.

If you cannot see the pavement or sign posts, slow down and look for road edge markings to guide you.

Do not drive through puddles. Wet brakes do not work right. If you drive through a large puddle, apply your brakes lightly as soon as you can to dry them until you feel them working normally again.

For more tips on driving in the rain, click on the photo or link below the headline to watch a AAA video.